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North Carolina · NC
North Carolina CDL
Knowledge Test
Everything you need to pass the North Carolina CDL knowledge test. The same FMCSA-standardized questions used across all 50 states.
Total CDL fee
$30
CLP wait
14 days
Min age
18+
To pass
80%
CDL Test Sections
The CDL knowledge test is administered by section. Passing score for all sections is 80%.
✓
General KnowledgeREQUIRED
50 questions · Pass with 40+
A
Air Brakes
25 questions · Pass with 20+
C
Combination Vehicles
20 questions · Pass with 16+
H
Hazardous Materials (HazMat)
30 questions · Pass with 24+
D
Doubles & Triples
20 questions · Pass with 16+
T
Tanker Vehicles
20 questions · Pass with 16+
P
Passenger Transport
20 questions · Pass with 16+
S
School Bus
20 questions · Pass with 16+
What to Know About CDL in North Carolina
North Carolina CDL fees: approximately $30 total — one of the lowest in the nation
Charlotte is a major banking and distribution hub — significant Class A CDL demand
North Carolina ports at Wilmington and Morehead City handle significant agricultural and textile freight
North Carolina has strong furniture and textile manufacturing — freight demand for regional CDL drivers
CDL holders must hold CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test
NCDMV computerized CDL knowledge tests available statewide
Legal notice
This information is provided for educational purposes only. Requirements can change. Always verify with North Carolina DMV (NCDMV) for the most current information.
How to Get Your CDL in North Carolina
The steps to earn a commercial driver's license in North Carolina, from your DOT medical card to your CDL.
- 1
Get your DOT medical card
Visit a certified medical examiner, pass the DOT physical, and keep the certificate on file with North Carolina DMV (NCDMV).
- 2
Study and pass the knowledge test
Cover General Knowledge plus any endorsements you need (Air Brakes, Combination, HazMat). Practice every section on Koydo until you're scoring 80%+.
- 3
Get your CLP
Pass the North Carolina knowledge test at a North Carolina DMV Driver License Office and pay the ~$15 permit fee to receive your commercial learner's permit.
- 4
Hold your CLP for 14 days
Federal rules require a minimum 14-day wait while you practice driving with a licensed CDL holder.
- 5
Pass the skills test
Schedule the pre-trip inspection, basic control, and road test with North Carolina DMV (NCDMV) (or an approved third-party tester).
- 6
Get your North Carolina CDL
Pay the ~$15 CDL fee and you're licensed to drive commercially.
North Carolina CDL — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a CDL cost in North Carolina?
North Carolina CDL fees come to about $30 total — roughly $15 for the commercial learner's permit (CLP) and $15 for the CDL itself, paid at North Carolina DMV (NCDMV). Testing and endorsement fees can add to this, so always confirm current amounts with North Carolina DMV (NCDMV).
What score do I need to pass the North Carolina CDL knowledge test?
You need 80% on each CDL knowledge section. North Carolina uses the same FMCSA-standardized question pool as every other state, so General Knowledge, Air Brakes, Combination Vehicles, and the endorsement tests are federally consistent.
How old do I have to be to get a CDL in North Carolina?
North Carolina issues a CDL at 18 for driving within the state (intrastate) and 21 for driving across state lines (interstate) or hauling hazardous materials.
How long must I hold a CLP before the North Carolina skills test?
At least 14 days. You pass the knowledge test first to earn your CLP, hold it for 14 days while practicing with a licensed CDL holder, then take the behind-the-wheel skills test.
Where do I take the CDL written test in North Carolina?
At a North Carolina DMV Driver License Office. The knowledge test is computerized. Practice every section on Koydo before you go so you walk in ready.
Is the Koydo CDL practice test accurate for North Carolina?
Yes. Koydo's questions follow the FMCSA CDL standard that North Carolina tests on, plus state-rule practice — with no ads, and your first 15 questions a day are free.
Ready to get your CDL in North Carolina?
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